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Felix G. Fernandez

Felix G. Fernandez, MD, MSc

4.9612 ratings

Thoracic Surgery

Telehealth Visits Available
Video Visit
Need help scheduling? Call (404) 778-3629

Highlights

Languages

  • English
  • Spanish

About Felix G. Fernandez

Emory Affiliation

Emory Clinic - School of Medicine Faculty
Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University
Emory Healthcare Network
Emory Physician Group Practice

Academic Title

Associate Professor

Year Started Practicing

2009

About the Provider

A Board Certified Surgeon and a Board Certified Thoracic Surgeon, Dr. Fernandez specializes in esophageal and lung cancer, achalasia, gastroesophageal reflux disease, hiatal hernia, esophageal diverticulum, and hyperhidrosis. Dr. Fernandez performs the majority of his surgeries with minimally invasive and/or robotic assisted procedures. He is affiliated with Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University.

Dr. Fernandez earned his MD with highest distinction from Wayne State University School of Medicine, earned a Master of Science in Clinical Research degree from the Laney Graduate School at Emory university, and completed his general surgery residency and cardiothoracic surgery fellowship at Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, MO.

Dr. Fernandez's research interests include outcomes in quality improvement and patient reported outcomes. In 2014, the Graham Foundation of the American Association for Thoracic Surgery (AATS) named Dr. Fernandez a Cardiothoracic Surgical Investigator for 2014-2015. The Foundation provided support for his pilot study to integrate patient reported outcomes data (PROs) into Emory's General Thoracic Surgery Database of the Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS). That same year, the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) awarded Dr. Fernandez an RO1 grant for a study that has helped identify the most advantageous surgical strategies for patients with lung cancer.

As an active member of the Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) since 2011, Dr. Fernandez has served in various capacities on multiple STS committees and has led and collaborated on several projects designed to refine and enhance components of the STS National Database, a highly impactful initiative for quality improvement and patient safety among cardiothoracic surgeons and their institutions across the U.S. In 2018, Dr. Fernandez was appointed chair of the STS Workforce on National Databases, which oversees the Adult Cardiac, General Thoracic, Congenital Heart Surgery, and Intermacs/Pedimacs Databases that are part of the STS National Database.

Professional Memberships

  • Alpha Omega Alpha, 1998-present
  • Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group, 2010-present
  • American College of Surgeons (Initiate 2011), 2004-present
  • Society of Thoracic Surgeons (Active member 2011), 2007-present
  • Alliance for Clinical trials in Oncology 2011-present
  • American College of Chest Physicians, 2011-present
  • Surgical Outcomes Club, 2011-present
  • Southern Thoracic Surgical Association, 2011-present
  • American Association for Thoracic Surgery, 2015-present
  • 21st Century Cardiothoracic Surgical Society, 2017-present

Interpretive Services

To provide the highest quality of care, interpreter services may be utilized to ensure proper communication of medical information for deaf, hard-of-hearing, and non-English speaking patients or family members.

Awards

  • Resident Traveling Fellowship Grant, American Association of Thoracic Surgery, 2008
  • Best Scientific Poster, Clinical Congress, American College of Surgeons, 2014
  • Richard E. Clark Paper in General Thoracic Surgery, Society of Thoracic Surgery (STS) 51st Annual Meeting, 2015
  • Richard E. Clark Paper in General Thoracic Surgery, STS 52nd Annual Meeting, 2016
  • Richard E. Clark Paper in General Thoracic Surgery, STS 53rd Annual Meeting, 2017
  • J. Maxwell Chamberlain Paper in General Thoracic Surgery, STS 53rd Annual Meeting, 2017
  • Richard E. Clark Paper in General Thoracic Surgery. STS 55th Annual Meeting. San Diego, CA. January 26-29, 2019.

Video

Locations

  1. Emory Heart & Vascular Center at Clifton Campus
    • 1365 Clifton Road Northeast, Bldg A, Fl 2, Atlanta, GA 30322
    • Get Directions

Expertise

Education

  • Fellowship: Barnes - Jewish Hospital, Cardiothoracic Surgery, 2009
  • Residency: Barnes - Jewish Hospital, General Surgery, 2007
  • Internship: Barnes - Jewish Hospital, General Surgery, 2001
  • Medical Education: Wayne State University School of Medicine, MD, 2000

Board Certifications

  • Thoracic and Cardiac Surgery: American Board of Thoracic Surgery, 2010
  • Surgery (General Surgery): American Board of Surgery, 2007

Ratings & Reviews

4.9 out of 5

612 ratings

The Patient Satisfaction Rating is an average of all responses to the care provider related questions shown below from our survey. Patients that are treated in outpatient or hospital environments may receive different surveys, and the volume of responses will vary by question.

Provider showed concern
Provider explained things clearly
Provider discussed treatment options
Provider included you in decisions
Likelihood of recommending this provider
Search reviews
    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 4/7/2026

    If you need a lung surgeon, and I hope you don't. But if so Dr. Fernandez is the MAN! Did a great job on my surgery and I would highly recommend!

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 4/7/2026

    Dr. Fernandez is absolutely amazing!! He has taken care of me and is a Doctor that truly cares about his patients. Amazing Doctor/Surgeon that you there at Emory!!

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 4/4/2026

    Excellent

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 3/26/2026

    Nurse Exceeded my expectations. However, the doctor seemed a bit distracted and seemed quite anxious to end the visit.

    4 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 3/24/2026

    Good

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 3/10/2026

    Explain everything in detail to me and I can understand

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 3/8/2026

    My doctor explained my condition to me in language that I understood. I also was given my options.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 3/3/2026

    Dr. Fernandez was excellent and I recommend.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 2/24/2026

    This doctor seemed like a very nice man. I am glad I didn't have a big problem this time. I'm sure he sees patients with more serious concerns.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 1/26/2026

    Dr explained everything very clearly so I could understand.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 1/16/2026

    I can't express how grateful I am for Dr. Fernandez. He has the best interpersonal skills and is the most caring Dr./Surgeon.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 1/15/2026

    Excellent

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 12/9/2025

    Dr. Fernandez is great. Excellent bed side manner. Forthcoming and puts hard answers in terms a patient can understand. He is not forcefully telling you what to do, but gives you the truth. Good or bad

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 12/9/2025

    Patient and thoughtful

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 12/7/2025

    Very good

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 12/5/2025

    Dr. Fernandez was very patient with his explanations and all of my many questions, and I appreciate that he answered me without talking down to me. He was also very understanding about my concerns. I definitely did not feel judged or like he thought I was being dumb. He was also very good at explaining things on my (patient) level instead of only at a medical professional's level.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 12/4/2025

    Dr Fernandez gave a clear explanation of my surgical options, risk and benefits as well as estimated time of recovery(s).

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 11/18/2025

    Good

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 11/4/2025

    Good

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 10/10/2025

    Very professional and easy to talk to

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 10/7/2025

    Dr. Was very attentive

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 10/3/2025

    He answered my questions, and gave me a chance to explain my concerns.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 10/1/2025

    Both doctor and assistant were very efficient.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 9/23/2025

    Very good

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 9/9/2025

    The doctor was very professional and polite. He explained everything about my condition and answered all of my questions. He made me feel like he cared. I'm glad he is my doctor.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 9/6/2025

    Love Dr Fernandez he's kind caring. All of the staff members are awesome too

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 8/20/2025

    They were all great

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 8/12/2025

    TALKED WITH MY FAMILY ON THE PHONE GREAT

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 8/12/2025

    Good

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 7/8/2025

    Cindy was thorough in explaining my CT results while showing me the CT images on her computer. She was very professional, knowledgeable, and made the office visit a pleasant experience. I am very happy with the care I am receiving from Dr Fernandez and his entire staff.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 7/8/2025

    Entire period of treatment and care was exceptional!!

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 7/5/2025

    Felt very comfortable with this visit. Dr. Fernandez was very patient and explained everything .

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 6/13/2025

    I can't say enough good things about Dr. Fernandez.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 5/26/2025

    Another great doctor on my care team. I feel he cares about me.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 5/13/2025

    Good

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 5/13/2025

    I will tell anyone who needs this care facility how Great this team of professionals will treat you.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 5/10/2025

    The visit was not rushed. Extremely informative. Great experience.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 5/6/2025

    Dr. Fernandez is the best doctor in every way that I know of.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 5/4/2025

    Dr. Fernandez is great at explaining things and answering questions. He gets it.I am fortunate to be in such great care.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 4/30/2025

    I was very impressed with Dr. Fernandez and his staff. There was less than probably three minutes between doctor, his nurse practitioner and three or four other staff members during our visit.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 4/29/2025

    Excellent

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 4/16/2025

    Dr.Fernandez is excellent. He explained everything and gave us options. We were very happy with him. And the staff.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 4/8/2025

    Buenas

    3 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 4/8/2025

    The doctor didn't seen to concern about the nodules on my lungs. He was sympathy and he was straight to the point.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 4/6/2025

    I know I'm in great hands with Dr Fernandez! He listens & answers all my questions with clear responses that I can easily understand while making sure that I fully understand all risks involved.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 3/18/2025

    My questions were answered in a manner that I could understand my treatment

    4 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 2/20/2025

    I was not given any options about my conditions.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 2/14/2025

    I don't think I've ever had a doctor that was as thorough, compassionate and made me feel so comfortable with my decision

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 1/20/2025

    Loved Dr Fernandez. Highly recommend!!

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 1/7/2025

    Excellent Doctor

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 12/9/2024

    Very informative and considerate.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 12/8/2024

    Care for my cancer was kind and effective

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 12/5/2024

    Dr Fernandez and his team were awesome! Both the PA and the Doctor listened to my concerns and provided information in layman's terms. I felt heard which is rare!

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 12/4/2024

    Topnotch providers!

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 11/21/2024

    Dr. Fernandez is an excellent surgeon. I would recommend him to any of my family friends or clients. I wish there were more doctors like him that cared so much for their patients.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 11/18/2024

    Dr Fernandez is uncommonly clear, thorough, not rushed, and caring compared to most doctors I have encountered. Nearly all doctors are knowledgeable, especially at a top class place like Emory. But not all of them display the four characteristics I just described.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 10/25/2024

    Dr Fernandez is my hero. I had been suffering for the past 23 years. I feel like I can maybe start living again!!!!

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 10/18/2024

    The provider listened to what I was saying and to my concerns. Very good

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 10/18/2024

    Dr Fernandez was thorough and very caring,explained everything throughly

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 10/16/2024

    I'm pleased with my doctor/care provider.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 10/4/2024

    Excellent visit with Dr. Fernandez!

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 10/1/2024

    Excellent Dr great service

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 9/25/2024

    My care team Dr Fernandez was very very thorough when explaining my problem treatment location of the area affected he even drew a diagram took me step by step through it I was.very well informed of my surgery and treatment

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 9/22/2024

    Everyone was fantastic.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 9/13/2024

    I will always recommend Emory.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 8/27/2024

    Dr Fernandez takes his time and explains things in a simple understandable way. My only problem is that I feel like there should be better communication between the referring doctor and the current doctor

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 8/20/2024

    Very profitable and very detailed. I was very impressed

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 8/16/2024

    Dr. Fernandez and his assistant were excellent and exceeded my expectations.

    4 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 8/13/2024

    I. Was. Very. Pleased

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 8/6/2024

    Very Good experience with care provider.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 8/1/2024

    Care provider answered all question and excellent follow up care!

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 7/19/2024

    The best experience I have ever had with a Doctor

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 7/19/2024

    Great experience

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 7/19/2024

    They work like clockwork I never seen nobody work as good as the staff that helped me.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 7/19/2024

    Saw the NP first time and she is excellent & of course Dr. Fernandez is Just the Best!

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 7/4/2024

    Answered my questions and offered things that I found helpful.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 6/24/2024

    Dr. Fernandez is a pleasure to visit with. I am very appreciative to be in his care.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 6/23/2024

    Awesome, Friendly and very smart THANK YOU

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 6/4/2024

    I love going to Emory

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 6/2/2024

    The doctor spent time answering questions and how to continue my care going forward.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 5/15/2024

    Excellent experience!

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 5/9/2024

    Dr Fernandez was very informative and answered my questions in a very understanding manner.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 5/3/2024

    Dr Fernandez and his PA are both kind and professional. They gave me good information and options to discuss. They are the very best at what they do. I am blessed to have this practice attending to my health.

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 4/23/2024

    Awesome

    5 out of 5 stars
    Reviewed on 4/20/2024

    Recommended highly